Valtteri Bottas and George Russell is not going to revisit their temporary rivalry as they be part of forces at Mercedes, it has been claimed.
Bottas was put beneath extreme strain by Russell for his Mercedes seat in 2020 and 2021, and so they collided on the F1 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix throughout that interval.
Russell finally would substitute Bottas, alongside Lewis Hamilton, at Mercedes. However Bottas is now returning as a reserve driver, backing up Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
“In no way, it’s all up to now,” Connor McDonagh informed the Crash F1 podcast concerning the Bottas v Russell historical past.
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“Russell needed Valtteri’s seat, and clearly Valtteri needed to maintain it.
“Valtteri is likely one of the nicest and best drivers to work with. Toto has already outlined that his function is to mentor Antonelli, as effectively.
“Having Bottas on the sidelines? He’s a terrific persona to have within the staff.
“When it comes to tempo, he ought to nonetheless be on the grid. He is a superb asset.
“Russell would be the staff chief, he’s the primary man now.
“Something like that’s up to now.”
Valtteri Bottas ‘alternative’ to return to F1 in 2026
Lewis Larkam added: ““I don’t suppose there will probably be any points.
“It was 4 years, it was utterly completely different. Mercedes have been in a fierce title combat with Purple Bull, Lewis Hamilton v Max Verstappen. Bottas was seen as a key determine to assist Mercedes and Hamilton win these titles.
“Russell was, on the time, the up-and-coming celebrity making an attempt to impress and earn that seat, which he finally did.
“We’re in a special scenario now. Bottas sees this as a chance to show his value – I agree he’s unfortunate to overlook out on a [race seat].
“This is a chance to remain concerned within the sport with a watch on a seat for 2026.
“I don’t suppose – even in Bottas’ wildest desires – he’s anticipating that to return at Mercedes.
“That is about staying within the circle and ready to see what else opens up.
“With Cadillac coming in 2026, there’s a clear alternative there. There will probably be two extra seats opening up.
“He and Sergio Perez are apparent candidates for a brand new staff who need an skilled driver.”
